Winter Life in Boston

During the winter months, Boston is very much a cold weather city. Because of this, those who plan to take advantage of furnished apartments in Boston during the winter months will want to know what to expect during their stay in the city. This includes what the weather is like, what they should wear, how to keep safe while driving, and what events take place in the city during the winter.

Winter Weather
As a city in the Northeast, Boston can be pretty cold in the winter. The cooler temperatures usually start settling in around October, but it is really mind-November when the cold temperatures start arriving. On average, high temperatures in mid-November and December are in the low 30’s. By the time January comes around, highs are only hitting the upper 20’s. This continues until around mid-March, when temperatures start to go above 32 as the warmer weather starts to return. As for lows, the mid-to-lower 20’s are normal during the winter months, though it is not unheard of for temperatures to dip into the teens or even single-digits. In addition, Boston has seen its fair share of cold snaps, where temperatures actually go below zero. Wind can also be a factor in Boston during the winter months, as the city sits along the Atlantic Ocean. Often, this can make the air feel much colder than it actually is.
As for snow, Boston definitely sees it during the winter months. Snow usually starts to fall in November, with an average of just over an inch of snow for the month. Things pick up in December, with an average of about 7 ½ inches. January tends to see the heaviest amounts, with around 12 inches. February is close behind, with just over 11 inches. March usually sees just less than 8 inches, and even April is known to see some, though it is usually less than an inch. Boston has been the site of some major snowfalls, however, with the most recent – The Blizzard of 2013 – dropping almost 25 inches on the city. Fortunately, these types of snowfall amounts are not common, but they can happen.

Because of this, you will want to bring heavy winter clothing with you if you are staying in Boston during the winter months. A heavy jacket is a must, as are snow boots. Gloves will help quite a bit, as will a snow hat. If you have a scarf handy, that will be a big help too. Snow pants can help, though it is not always easy to wear them (especially if you have to wear a suit to work).

Driving safely in the city’s winter weather is also very important. Some important things to keep in mind include keeping your headlights on at all times while driving, making sure your car’s windows are completely free of snow and ice before you hit the road, leaving plenty of space between you and the car ahead of you (especially if the roads are icy), and keeping your speeds lower (especially if the roads are sloppy). You will probably have to give yourself extra time to get to work in the morning, since you will not likely be able to drive at your normal speeds. The roads are plowed on a regular basis, but even so, it is better to be cautious.

Winter Events
As a cold weather city, there are a number of annual events in Boston that happen specifically for the colder temperatures. For example, there is the Annual Beanpot Hockey Tournament, which takes place between four major college hockey teams. The tournament usually occurs in early February at the TD Garden. Starting in mid-November and going through the winter, you can also head down to The Frog Pond for some public ice skating. You can even check out free skating shows for the lighting of the Boston Common Tree (the city’s official Christmas tree) on December 5 and to celebrate New Year’s Eve on December 31. Both national and international skating champions are featured at the shows. Speaking of New Year’s Eve, you can attend First Night Boston on December 31, which features shows, musical performances, and a fireworks show. You can also try your hand a skiing at the Blue Hills Ski Area, which is just a few minutes from the city. It usually opens in early December and closes in March.